Migraine Prevention and Treatment
Migraines are no fun. If you suffer from them, you know how debilitating they can be. You’ll feel trapped in a dark, dank cave with no hope of escape. You might have trouble focusing on anything besides your pain. Even that’s hard because the agony is so intense that it seems to come from all angles.
That’s why knowing how to prevent and treat migraines is so essential. If you can nip them before they get out of control, you can save yourself from days of agony. It’s a good feeling knowing that you have the power to stop migraines in their tracks.
So, in this article, we’ll look at some of the best ways to prevent and treat migraines.
Migraine Prevention Medications
These are the most effective ways to prevent migraines.
Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers are a great first line of defense against migraines. They block the effects of adrenaline and cortisol, chemicals released during stress. These two chemicals play a role in triggering migraines. By stopping their effects, beta-blockers help reduce your chances of getting one.
Anticonvulsants
Anticonvulsants are used to treat seizures and certain types of headaches. They prevent migraines by preventing the release of chemicals that cause inflammation. Another way they work is by altering the activity of some brain cells. These changes make it harder for you to become stressed out, which can trigger a migraine attack.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants are used to treat depression and anxiety. They’re also sometimes used to help prevent migraines. These drugs alter the levels of certain chemicals in your brain. These chemicals include serotonin and dopamine.
Other Preventive Treatments for Migraine
Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves stimulating specific points in your body with thin needles. It helps prevent migraines by reducing inflammation. It also improves blood flow to your head. Acupuncture also helps reduce stress levels. And stress can trigger or worsen migraines in some people.
Massage
Massage is another type of therapy that can help prevent migraines. Studies show that it can lower your stress levels. It can also reduce the frequency and severity of your headaches. Massage can also stimulate the release of endorphins. These chemicals in your brain promote feelings of pleasure.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioural therapy teaches you how to change your thoughts about your condition. It helps you identify and challenge negative, unhelpful thinking patterns. These patterns may trigger or worsen your migraines. CBT can also help you manage stress by teaching relaxation techniques.
Treatment Options for Migraine
There are several treatment options for migraines. Your doctor will help you decide which one is right for you.
Painkillers
Painkillers are the most common first-line treatment for migraine. Your doctor may advise you to take them as soon as you feel a headache coming on or when your symptoms start. Painkillers include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These include ibuprofen, and paracetamol. These are used only if other painkillers don’t help.
When taking over-the-counter painkillers, follow the instructions on the packet. Avoid taking painkillers regularly unless prescribed by a doctor. They may cause side effects such as ulcers and stomach bleeding.
Triptans
Sometimes, ordinary painkillers won’t work for migraines. In these cases, your doctor may prescribe triptans. These are also 5HT1B/1D receptor agonists. They are used to treat acute cluster headaches and migraines.
Triptans narrow the blood vessels in your brain so that less blood flows. However, you should be careful when taking these. That’s because they can cause side effects such as nausea and vomiting. You should also avoid taking triptans if allergic to sumatriptan, naratriptan, or zolmitriptan.
Anti-sickness Medicines
Some people experience nausea and vomiting when they have a migraine. In these cases, your doctor may prescribe anti-sickness medicines. Such medicines include domperidone or metoclopramide. These stop the stomach from signalling to the brain that you need to vomit.
Combination Medicines
Some people find that combining medicines is more effective than a single medication. Your doctor may prescribe you a combination of naproxen and acetaminophen. Or they may prescribe Ibuprofen with Paracetamol. These combinations can help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with migraine attacks.
Seeing a Specialist
People with chronic migraine may need to see a specialist for further treatment. You may also require a specialist if your symptoms don’t respond well to standard therapies. It’s also vital to see a doctor if you have other conditions linked with the headache.
Conclusion
Preventing and treating migraines is a complex process that involves many factors. It’s vital to prevent migraine attacks with lifestyle changes and medication. Also, treat any underlying conditions that may contribute to your headache.
